United Nations in Mongolia

United Nations in Mongolia

United Nations in Mongolia

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia- Remarks by Beate Trankmann, 17th May 2018

17 May 2018

Sain baina uu?

Promoting and protecting human rights are at the foundation of the United Nations. We strive to protect the human rights of all people

IDAHOTB – the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is a day to raise awareness that the rights of LGBTI people (spell) are human rights and human rights are LGBTI rights. This day therefore is an opportunity to advocate for promotion and protection of the rights of LGBTI communities.

The global theme for IDAHOTB this year is Alliances for Solidarity. We must all come together to form strong partnerships and collectively act to advance human rights and the freedom of expression regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity.

Homophobia, biphobia and transphobia have enormous social and economic costs for individuals, families, communities and societies. Discrimination against distinct groups has a significant impact on development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals. Globally, the UN estimates that the lesbian, gay and bisexual communities are twice as likely to attempt suicide, while the transgender community is ten times more likely to make the attempt. These staggering figures reveal a dark side to our societies and one we must address to achieve prosperity and equality for all.

Unlike in many countries hate crimes and hate speech based on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression have been criminalized in Mongolia since July 2017. And we thank the LGBT Center and other allies for their enormous efforts to make it happen.

We, at the UN, know that it is not easy being LGBTI in Mongolia. The public still knows very little about the LGBTI community and significant advocacy is needed to enhance their awareness and acceptance. In support of combating discrimination and promoting understanding, we will be launching the UN Free and Equal campaign in Mongolia. The aim of the campaign is to promote the equal rights and fair treatment of LGBTI people both in our offices and the community at large. We are also working to create a friendly and discrimination-free workplaces that embrace diversity. I call on all families, friends, and employers do the same.

I would like to assure the LGBTI community that the UN stands with them and we renew our call for equal rights for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression.